Bylaws, Elections & Annual Meeting 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s New This Year
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Updated Voting Procedures
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Officer roles continue to use majority voting, while Advisor roles will use ranked choice. Tie‑breaking procedures have been clarified to avoid confusion during the meeting.
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This year’s proposed updates focus on clarity, transparency, accountability, and legal alignment with Delaware nonprofit law.
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Bylaw Changes FAQ
Q: What are bylaws?
Bylaws are the internal rules that guide how GaL‑AA operates—covering membership, leadership roles, voting, finances, and organizational procedures.
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Q: Why are changes being proposed?
To keep our bylaws current, resolve unclear language, strengthen transparency, and ensure they reflect the needs and values of our fellowship.
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Q: What happens if the proposed changes do not pass?
GaL‑AA will continue operating under the current bylaws, and elections will follow the existing rules.
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Q: When will results be posted?
Results will be announced during a communication after the vote and posted on gal-aa.org.
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Q: How can I get involved with GaL‑AA committees?
Members can email support@gal-aa.org to express interest. Committees include Policy, Finance, Communications, and others.
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Q: Who do I contact with questions or concerns about voting?
Please reach out to the Elections Committee at elections@gal-aa.org.
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Election FAQ
Q: How are candidates selected for the election?
Candidates must apply through the website form by September 21, 2026. After the deadline, GaL‑AA Officers not on the ballot review all submissions—service histories and other materials—and verify eligibility by speaking with each candidate and confirming qualifications.
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Q: When are candidates added to the ballot?
Eligible candidates are added after the application period closes on September 21, 2026 at 5:00 PM EST. Voting runs from October 20 to November 3, 2026.
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Q: Can non‑members vote?
No. Only GaL‑AA members with a registered email address may vote.
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Q: How do I know if I’m a current GaL‑AA member?
Members are active if they registered an email address by the September 20, 2026 at 5:00 PM EST cutoff. If you’re unsure, email elections@gal-aa.org.
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Q: Why is ranked choice being used for Advisor elections?
Because it’s the fairest way to elect multiple Advisors with the same role from one ballot. Ranking candidates allows voters to express their preferences more fully and helps ensure the available Advisor seats are filled by candidates with broad support across the membership
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Q: Can I update my email address before the vote?
Yes. Members may update their email address until September 20, 2026. After that, the voter list is locked.
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Q: Will candidate resumes be available to members?
No. Candidate information and submission essays will be posted on gal-aa.org during the voting period.
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Q: What positions are being elected this year?
Chair, Treasurer, and five Advisor positions are on the 2026 ballot.
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Q: How is voting eligibility confirmed?
Only members with an email registered by September 20, 2026 at 5:00 PM EST will receive a ballot.
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Q: How are votes counted and resolved?
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Officers: Majority wins.
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Advisors: Pooled ranking.
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If a tie occurs, the Elections Committee votes; majority wins.
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Q: Will my vote be confidential?
Yes. All votes are confidential.